The likes of West Ham have spent significant funds to strengthen their squad and there is a feeling among the Toon Army that this season could go down as an opportunity missed unless things change between now and August.

The downcast mood is nothing new as Ashley has often been accused of a lack of ambition in regards to transfers.

The window will close before a ball is kicked in anger, so Newcastle need to get a shuffle on if they are going to avoid this summer becoming likened to Groundhog Day.

At the point where I’m thinking those in charge of Newcastle United don’t want Rafa to stay. He’s too much hassle, wants to better himself and the club and all El Gigante’s interested in is peddling Sports Direct.

Money doesn’t buy success but put it this way, West Ham now have double the quality in their squad compared to ours. The difference in ambition is extraordinary. Imagine what #NUFC could achieve with Benitez if only half that ambition was shown by the owner.

Seeing clubs like West Ham (a club below us last season) and Fulham (a newly promoted side) show more ambition spending on players to progress is depressing as a Newcastle fan. We’ve got a great manager and a good group of talanet but without key additions, risk relegation #NUFC

Hopefully a billionaire or group of billionaires looks at the Newcastle and sees something worth investing in because Mike Ashley clearly doesn’t. Fans are well aware of the money a premier league team makes and are well aware Mike has made millions more than spent on the club